Many HubSpot users hit cracks: pricing hikes, unreliable calls, and misfiring automations. These are some common stories related to sales performance that I discovered in the HubSpot Alternative Reddit thread.
Also, according to many people, HubSpot is "okay," but outbound-heavy teams often end up paying more and stacking additional tools for dialing, sequencing, and AI-generated notes.
The good news is there are alternatives.
Salesforce offers scalability, while Pipedrive and Close simplify outbound efforts, and Salesmate CRM provides great value at a decent price.
In this guide, I'll break down the best alternatives to HubSpot, including their reporting and analytics dashboards grouped by needs: sales, marketing, SMBs, and enterprises.
What people really want when they search for "HubSpot alternatives"
When someone types “alternatives to HubSpot CRM or HubSpot marketing alternatives,” it’s rarely out of curiosity. It usually comes from a pain point that’s getting too big to ignore.
Here are the most common discussions you’ll find on Reddit rooms about HubSpot alternatives:
- Pricing creep: Startup discounts fade, contact tiers shoot up, and essential features like automation are hidden behind expensive upgrades.
- Core features that underdeliver: Calling can feel unreliable, automations often misfire, and reporting frequently requires upgrading to higher tiers.
- Mismatch with outbound teams: HubSpot is primarily built for inbound marketing, so companies with a heavy focus on outbound efforts often end up integrating dialers, sequencers, and AI note-taking tools.
- Complexity and overhead: The platform can be overwhelming, requiring teams to spend more time managing HubSpot than actually selling or marketing.
- Frustration with the ecosystem: Users often mention mixed experiences with support, community, and the sense of being nickel-and-dimed.
Many users start looking for alternatives because HubSpot no longer aligns with their evolving business needs, such as specific workflows, integrations, or support requirements.
In short, people don’t usually walk away from HubSpot because it’s bad software; they leave because the cost, reliability, or fit no longer makes sense for the way their business actually runs.
7 Top HubSpot alternatives overview (2026)
Before we dive into the tools, it's worth noting that each HubSpot alternative suits a different stage, budget, and business process.
1. Salesmate (Best HubSpot CRM alternative)
Salesmate is designed as a complete revenue operating system for modern teams, helping sales teams manage leads and organize customer data efficiently.
Where HubSpot often pushes users into costly upgrades, Salesmate delivers core essentials, such as calling, texting, email marketing campaigns, and features to automate repetitive tasks through AI-powered automation. Salesmate includes sales automation tools and a sales assistant to streamline the sales process.
That means fewer add-ons to manage, faster adoption, and a smoother workflow for both sales and marketing. Its advanced automation features allow branching workflows and predictive recommendations.
With Skara, an AI agent, teams can automate lead nurturing, cart recovery, meeting notes, and 24/7 support, helping businesses grow faster without adding headcount.
Many growing businesses choose it because it feels lighter than HubSpot, yet still powerful enough to run sales pipelines, launch marketing campaigns, and utilize the sales hub for visualizing and managing the sales process, as well as deliver excellent customer support from a single platform.
So, if you pick Salesmate, you get a CRM built for sales, marketing, and basic support, all in one place, with advanced reporting features for sales and marketing performance.
Users on G2 and Capterra often praise its ease of setup, clean user experience, and value for money, making Salesmate one of the top-rated alternatives to HubSpot CRM, especially with its robust customer support tools.
Key features
- Unified sales management software with workflow automation, visual dashboards, and real-time analytics
- Built-in communication tools, including built-in calling, texting, email campaigns, and meeting scheduling
- AI-powered marketing automation tools with segmentation, A/B testing, and personalized drip campaigns
- AI Agents for lead nurturing, meeting notes, cart recovery, and 24/7 customer support
- Omnichannel support across live chat, email, voice, SMS, WhatsApp, and social channels to manage customer inquiries efficiently
- 700+ integrations with Google, Microsoft, Slack, Shopify, and other essential tools
Pricing plans:
- Basic – $23/user/month (core CRM, pipeline, email tracking, scheduling)
- Pro – $39/user/month (automation, bulk emails, reports, integrations)
- Business – $63/user/month (advanced automation, calling, text campaigns, conversation AI)
- Enterprise – Custom pricing (scalable features, enterprise security, advanced support)
(All plans include a 15-day free trial, no credit card required.)
2. Salesforce CRM software
Salesforce is often considered the industry standard in CRM, and for good reason.
It’s trusted by over 150,000 companies worldwide and offers unmatched flexibility for marketing, sales, and customer service.
Unlike HubSpot, which is more plug-and-play, Salesforce enables businesses to customize workflows, integrate with numerous apps, and scale without limitations.
Its extensive apps and integrations ecosystem allows users to connect with a wide range of third-party services, such as Zapier, enhancing workflow automation and expanding functionality.
That power, however, comes with complexity and higher costs, making it better suited for organizations with dedicated sales ops or IT support.
Salesforce is particularly well-suited for enterprises that require advanced customization of complex sales processes.
Key features:
- Sales pipeline management with advanced customization, automation, and AI forecasting
- Highly customizable sales and service workflows
- Sales Cloud, Service Cloud, and Marketing Cloud integration
- An extensive ecosystem of third-party apps and add-ons
- Robust reporting and analytics, sales forecasting, and workflow automation tools
- AI-powered insights with Salesforce Einstein
- Trailhead learning platform for user training
Pricing plans:
- Salesforce Starter Suite – $25/user/month (basic sales, service, and marketing tools)
- Sales Cloud Professional – $80/user/month (complete CRM for sales teams)
- Sales Cloud Enterprise – $165/user/month (customization, automation, advanced reporting)
- Sales Cloud Unlimited – $330/user/month (full features, AI, support, scalability)
(Free trial available; discounts may apply for SMBs or regional promotions.)
3. Microsoft Dynamics 365
Microsoft Dynamics 365 blends CRM and ERP into a single platform, making it a strong option for businesses seeking more than just sales and marketing automation.
Unlike HubSpot, which is primarily focused on customer engagement, Dynamics 365 connects sales, service, finance, and supply chain processes under a single system, and also offers content management features for organizing digital assets and marketing materials.
Dynamics delivers customizable pipelines, AI insights, and automated workflows across departments. Its AI agents and CoCoPilot bring predictive insights and task automation into everyday workflows.
While its depth makes it ideal for enterprises or organizations with complex needs, smaller teams may find it overwhelming compared to lighter CRMs.
Still, for businesses that want scale and operational alignment, Dynamics 365 delivers.
Key features:
- Unified CRM + ERP applications for sales, service, finance, and operations
- AI-powered CoCopilot insights, task automation, and conversation support
- Integration with Microsoft ecosystem (Teams, Power BI, Office 365, Azure)
- Customizable workflows and agentic apps for multiple industries
- AppSource marketplace with hundreds of partner add-ons
- Enterprise-grade security and compliance
Pricing plans:
- Dynamics 365 Sales Professional – $65/user/month (core sales automation & insights)
- Dynamics 365 Sales Enterprise – $95/user/month (advanced customization, forecasting, AI Copilot)
- Dynamics 365 Customer Service Professional – $50/user/month (case management & service tools)
- Dynamics 365 Business Central Essentials – $70/user/month (finance, supply chain, operations)
- Dynamics 365 Customer Insights – $1,500/tenant/month (customer data & analytics platform)
(30-day free trial available; pricing varies by module and region.)
4. Freshsales (Freshworks CRM)
Freshsales is a solid HubSpot alternative for teams wanting simple contact management and an AI-powered CRM without the enterprise-level complexity.
Built by Freshworks, it’s designed for ease of use, giving sales reps a clean interface, quick setup, and Freddy AI to score leads, recommend next steps, and even draft emails.
Freshsales also functions as a customer support platform, offering features like shared inboxes and knowledge bases to help teams deliver efficient support and collaborate effectively.
Unlike HubSpot’s heavier bundles, Freshsales keeps pricing straightforward and starts as low as $9, making it attractive for startups and SMBs.
With sales and marketing in one suite, it helps growing businesses manage pipelines, campaigns, and customer engagement from a single system.
Key features:
- Freddy AI for lead scoring, deal insights, and email assistance
- 360° customer view with multichannel engagement to simplify customer interactions
- Drag-and-drop Kanban pipeline views
- Automation for repetitive tasks and workflows
- Freshsales Suite option (sales + marketing in one platform)
- Native integration with Freshworks products and third-party apps
Pricing plans:
- Growth – starts at $9/user/month (basic CRM, pipeline, email, chat)
- Pro – $39/user/month (AI lead scoring, workflows, custom reports)
- Enterprise – $59/user/month (advanced AI insights, forecasting, governance)
(21-day free trial, no credit card required.)
5. ActiveCampaign (Best HubSpot alternative for email marketing)
ActiveCampaign has long been a favorite for email and marketing automation, and its new autonomous marketing features push it even further ahead.
As a powerful marketing automation tool, ActiveCampaign enables businesses to launch sophisticated cross-channel campaigns in minutes.
It offers a wide range of customizable email templates, making campaign creation efficient and ensuring a professional appearance. Users can also create and optimize landing pages to improve lead generation and conversion rates.
Additionally, ActiveCampaign integrates with numerous marketing apps, streamlining workflows and enhancing overall campaign performance.
Its “Active Intelligence” uses AI agents to recommend next steps, optimize content, and even execute tasks, removing the guesswork from campaign planning.
Key features:
- Autonomous marketing with AI-driven strategy & execution
- Active Intelligence for insights and next-best-action recommendations
- Powerful automation engine with complex workflows & split branches
- Personalized email, SMS, and WhatsApp campaigns
- 950+ app integrations and certified consultant network
- Free 1:1 onboarding and migration support
Pricing plans:
- Lite – from $29/month (email marketing & automation basics)
- Plus – from $49/month (CRM, landing pages, SMS, lead scoring)
- Professional – from $149/month (predictive sending, split automations, advanced reporting)
- Enterprise – custom pricing (dedicated support, custom reporting, enterprise features)
(14-day free trial, no credit card required.)
6. GetResponse
GetResponse is best known as an affordable marketing automation platform, often chosen as a HubSpot marketing alternative for SMBs, eCommerce, and especially online businesses looking to scale and streamline their operations.
Unlike HubSpot, which often raises costs as your list grows, GetResponse maintains predictable pricing, even as you send more emails or build larger campaigns.
New users can also take advantage of a free plan, which provides basic features to help small businesses get started before upgrading to paid options.
It’s built for eCommerce stores, SMBs, entrepreneurs, and online businesses who need unlimited email sends, automation workflows, and landing pages without paying extra for each module.
With added tools like SMS, push notifications, funnels, and even webinars, it’s more than an email service; it’s a growth platform.
GetResponse also tracks customer behavior, allowing you to personalize marketing campaigns and improve engagement based on how customers interact with your content.
For teams frustrated with HubSpot’s pricing creep, GetResponse feels like a simpler and more cost-stable choice for managing customer conversations.
Key features:
- Unlimited email newsletters with AI-generated content support
- Unlimited automation workflows (welcome flows, cart reminders, re-engagement)
- Unlimited landing pages with AI-assisted copy and design
- Built-in SMS, web push notifications, funnels, and popups
- AI product recommendations for ecommerce personalization
- Webinar hosting, recording, and promotion tools
- 100+ integrations with ecommerce and marketing platforms
Pricing plans:
- Email Marketing – starts at $19/month (unlimited newsletters, autoresponders, landing pages)
- Marketing Automation – starts at $59/month (advanced automation, webinars, funnels, ecommerce features)
- E-commerce Marketing – starts at $119/month (AI recommendations, transactional emails, expanded integrations)
(Free trial available, no credit card required.)
Interesting read: 21 Best marketing automation software & tools [HubSpot alternatives edition]
7. Ontraport
Ontraport is designed to provide growing businesses with enterprise-level CRM capabilities without the enterprise-level pricing or complexity.
Unlike HubSpot, which often requires stacking add-ons, Ontraport consolidates marketing automation, CRM, pipelines, payments, project management tools, and even CMS into one platform.
Its strength lies in flexibility; teams can build custom processes, create membership sites, manage events, or run referral programs all within the same system.
Ontraport enables segmentation and engagement of targeted customers with personalized campaigns, helping businesses reach specific audience groups more effectively.
With AI assistants integrated across sales, marketing, and support, it reduces busywork while scaling customer experiences.
Ontraport also includes tools to track and improve customer satisfaction through automated feedback and support workflows, ensuring a better overall customer experience.
Advanced reporting tools are available for analyzing campaign and business performance, giving users valuable insights into their operations.
For SMBs or franchises that want all-in-one functionality without the HubSpot price tag, Ontraport offers a compelling alternative.
Key features:
- Visual campaign builder for multichannel automation (email, SMS, ads)
- CRM with drag-and-drop pipelines, lead scoring, and shared inbox
- Built-in payments, partner programs, and subscription management
- Dynamic CMS for websites, customer portals, and online courses
- AI-powered assistants for content, sales notes, and support automation
- Custom objects and relational database (OntraportDB) for complex processes
Pricing plans:
- Basic – starts at $29/month (CRM, email, pages, basic automation)
- Plus – $99/month (advanced automations, partner tracking, payments, membership sites)
- Pro – $149/month (deep customization, complex funnels, performance reporting)
- Enterprise – $299/month (advanced scaling, VIP services, dedicated support)
(14-day free trial, no credit card required. Pricing scales only as you grow.)
Automate work, accelerate growth!
Let Salesmate handle follow-ups, campaigns, and tasks, so your team spends more time closing deals.
Quick comparison of the most talked-about HubSpot alternatives in 2026
Before diving into detailed reviews, here’s a quick side-by-side look at the leading HubSpot competitors, highlighting their strengths as a HubSpot competitor.
This table compares top alternatives, focusing on features, pricing, and suitability for different business needs.
Several of these platforms offer free plans, which can be especially valuable for smaller businesses and startups looking to minimize costs.
| Alternative | G2 Rating | AI features (Highlights) | Starting pricing | Best fit scenario |
| Salesmate | 4.7/5 | AI Agents (copilot, auto-pilot), email drafting, summaries | ~$23/user/month | Teams wanting one platform for sales, marketing, & support |
| Salesforce | 4.4/5 | Einstein AI insights, predictive forecasting, and AI bots | From $25/user/month | Enterprises needing deep workflows & control |
| Dynamics 365 | 3.8/5 | Copilot & agentic AI across apps | Modular, app-based | Businesses needing unified CRM + ERP + service |
| Freshsales | 4.5/5 | AI lead scoring, deal recommendations, and email intelligence | From $9/user/month (free plan available) | Small & mid-sized teams focused on pipeline/outreach |
| ActiveCampaign | 4.5/5 | Active Intelligence, AI agents, next-best action | From $29/month | Teams driving advanced marketing + nurture at lower cost |
| GetResponse | 4.3/5 | AI content generation, automation suggestions | From $19/month (free plan available) | Marketing-led businesses needing unlimited emails & workflows |
| Ontraport | 4.5/5 | AI assistant for content, calls, automations | From $29/month | Businesses wanting unified CRM, marketing, sites & payments |
Pricing is approximate from public sources. Actual costs vary by billing cycle, region, or add-ons. Free plans are available for Freshsales and GetResponse, making them attractive options for smaller businesses.
Interesting read: Learn about the strategic CRM onboarding checklist for a smoother transition.
Hidden costs of HubSpot vs alternatives
When you're exploring alternatives to HubSpot CRM, remember the sticker price is only part of the story.
Both HubSpot and its competitors often carry costs that don't show up until you're months into using the platform.
Here's what to watch out for:
Hidden costs of HubSpot
- Contact-based pricing → HubSpot's tiers look affordable at first, but as your contact list grows, so does your bill. A startup might start at $50/month, only to find itself paying thousands annually once it scales past thresholds.
- Add-ons and premium modules → Advanced reporting, workflows, and service features aren't always included; they often require higher plans or paid add-ons.
- Support costs → Premium support and guided onboarding aren't guaranteed in lower tiers, leading to surprise expenses.
- Implementation time → Adopting HubSpot can demand significant setup and training, adding hidden overhead in people-hours.
Hidden costs of HubSpot alternatives
Even though many HubSpot alternatives position themselves as simpler or cheaper, they can come with their own hidden expenses:
- Salesforce & Microsoft Dynamics 365 → License fees are just the start. Customization, consulting, and IT staff can increase the total cost of ownership by two to three times.
- Salesmate → More affordable CRM than HubSpot, but advanced AI capabilities, add-on call/text credits, or enterprise-level features may increase overall spend for larger teams.
- Freshsales & EngageBay → Attractive pricing at first, but reporting and automation can feel limited as you scale, pushing you toward upgrades or add-ons.
How to choose the right alternative based on your business stage & priorities?
The “best HubSpot alternative” really depends on where your business is today and what you care about most.
A few patterns tend to come up:
- Smaller teams and startups typically require something affordable and easy to set up. That’s why Freshsales or GetResponse make sense because they provide the basics, including CRM, email, and some automation, without overspending.
- Growing SMBs and mid-market companies often need integrated marketing and sales features in one place. That’s where Salesmate works well. They’re easier to adopt than HubSpot, but still offer automation, campaigns, and AI features under one roof.
- Outbound-heavy teams (think sales reps making hundreds of calls) tend to perform better with CRMs like Pipedrive or Close, which are specifically designed for pipeline speed, calling, and managing leads efficiently.
- Marketing-led businesses lean toward ActiveCampaign or GetResponse because their automation capabilities for email, SMS, and cross-channel campaigns are stronger than most, helping you optimize your marketing efforts.
- Enterprises or complex operations still opt for Salesforce or Microsoft Dynamics 365. They’re more expensive and take longer to implement, but they offer customization, depth, and advanced customer support capabilities that HubSpot lacks.
- Tech-savvy teams with developers often opt for open-source CRMs like SuiteCRM or ERP Next. They’re “free” to start, but you’ll spend on hosting and customization. The right CRM can also support your marketing team with automation and integrations.
So, match the CRM to your stage and priorities. If you’re small and scrappy, keep it simple. If you’re scaling rapidly, consider an all-in-one solution. If you’re an enterprise, you’ll need something customizable, even if it costs more.
Enterprise power, without the bloat!
Salesmate delivers enterprise-grade features, AI, omnichannel capabilities, and automation at predictable pricing and with faster setup.
How to migrate from HubSpot CRM alternatives without losing data?
Switching CRMs can feel daunting, but it doesn't have to mean losing your history. The trick is to approach migration step by step.
1. Clean before you export
Avoid carrying over duplicates, outdated contacts, or incomplete records to ensure accuracy. This is your opportunity to clean up your database so the new CRM can start from a clean slate.
2. Map your fields carefully
HubSpot and your new CRM may label things differently. Create a simple mapping list so fields like Contact Owner or Deal Stage align correctly when you import.
3. Export everything that matters
It's not just contacts, you'll likely want deals, companies, notes, activities, and custom properties. Many CRMs also allow you to import email history.
4. Test with a small sample
Run a trial import with a few dozen records. This helps you catch mismatches in fields or ownership before moving the full database.
5. Reconnect your tools
After the data is in, don't forget to integrate with services like Gmail, Slack, or marketing automation tools. Rebuilding these connections early keeps teams productive.
6. Train your team and go live
Even if the new CRM is user-friendly, give your sales, marketing, and support staff a walkthrough. Familiarity reduces frustration during the first weeks.
Pro tip: Factor in hidden costs, such as onboarding, consultant time, or downtime during the cutover. Planning for them upfront avoids nasty surprises.
Future-proofing your CRM choice (AI & automation in 2026)
Choosing a CRM isn't only about what works today; it's about whether the platform can keep up with your business in the years ahead. That's where AI and automation step in.
The bigger AI trend in tech is showing clearly: CRMs are evolving into copilots.
They're not just tracking contacts and deals; they're guiding decisions, identifying risks in your pipeline before they emerge, and helping teams stay compliant as data regulations become more stringent.
Low-code and no-code customization is also becoming standard, giving business teams flexibility without always leaning on developers.
Checklist: What to look for in a future-proof CRM
- AI agents for tasks like research, meeting notes, or follow-ups
- Predictive analytics for lead scoring, forecasting, and pipeline health
- Smart automation features beyond email, covering sales, marketing, and support workflows
- Low-code / no-code tools so teams can customize without IT bottlenecks
- Compliance readiness for GDPR, HIPAA, and evolving data regulations
- Scalable integrations that connect with your broader tech stack
Future-proofing your CRM choice means selecting a vendor that is already investing in these areas. That way, you're not just buying software, you're buying time, avoiding future migrations, and setting yourself up for smoother growth as automation becomes the default.
Get into details: What is the future of CRM? [Expert predictions for 2026]
Conclusion
Across all stages, sales and marketing teams need predictable costs and future-readiness. Ultimately, the best alternatives to HubSpot depend on your priorities.
Startups often seek simple and affordable CRM tools.
Growing SMBs require a unified approach to sales and marketing, whereas enterprises focus on advanced customization and integrations.
However, across all stages, two key factors matter most: future-readiness and predictable costs.
Don't just compare subscription prices; factor in hidden costs, onboarding, and whether the CRM can grow with your team.
Select a platform that aligns with your current stage and is already investing in AI and automation for the future.
If you're looking for an all-in-one option, Salesmate is definitely worth considering. Start with a 15-day free trial today.
Frequently asked questions
1. Is Salesmate a good alternative to HubSpot in 2026?
Yes. Salesmate combines sales, marketing, and customer engagement in one platform at a more predictable cost than HubSpot, all supported by an intuitive interface. With built-in calling, texting, email campaigns, live chat, and AI-powered automation, it's designed for growing teams that want enterprise-grade features without the premium pricing of HubSpot.
2. Salesmate vs HubSpot: Which is better for small businesses?
For mid-sized to scaling businesses, Salesmate is often the better fit. It's easier to set up, more affordable, and includes communication tools (calls, texts, email) by default. HubSpot is powerful, but costs climb quickly as contacts and add-ons scale.
3. What is the best open-source alternative to HubSpot CRM in 2026?
If you want full control, SuiteCRM remains the most popular open-source CRM. OroCRM is well-suited for eCommerce, while ERPNext is a strong option for those requiring a comprehensive CRM solution that integrates accounting, HR, and inventory features. Keep in mind, open-source CRMs usually require developer support for hosting and customization.
4. Which HubSpot alternatives offer free CRM plans?
Several CRMs offer free tiers, including Zoho CRM (up to three users), EngageBay (250 contacts), and Freshsales (a starter plan is available at no cost). These are good choices for startups wanting to experiment without major investment. Salesmate offers a free trial, allowing you to test advanced features before committing.
5. What are the best HubSpot alternatives for enterprises?
Salesforce, Salesmate, and Microsoft Dynamics 365 are the top options. All three offer deep customization, strong compliance features, and AI capabilities. Salesforce and Dynamics cater to enterprises with IT teams and complex needs, while Salesmate strikes a balance between enterprise-grade features, faster setup, and predictable pricing.
6. Which HubSpot alternative is best for sales teams?
Salesmate excels in this area, combining sales automation with built-in calling, texting, and email, so reps can sell without needing to switch tools. Also, for pipeline-focused teams, Pipedrive and Freshsales are strong choices.
7. Can you switch from HubSpot without losing historical data?
Yes, but it requires planning. Export contacts, deals, notes, and activities, then carefully map the fields to your new CRM. Run a test import first to catch errors. Most modern CRMs, including Salesmate, also offer migration support or services to simplify the process.
8. How much cheaper are alternatives to HubSpot in 2026?
It depends on scale. Many HubSpot alternatives start between $14–$29 per user/month, while HubSpot's contact-based pricing can push costs into the thousands as databases grow. For scaling teams, the savings can be significant over one to two years.
Key takeaways
Many HubSpot users hit cracks: pricing hikes, unreliable calls, and misfiring automations. These are some common stories related to sales performance that I discovered in the HubSpot Alternative Reddit thread.
Also, according to many people, HubSpot is "okay," but outbound-heavy teams often end up paying more and stacking additional tools for dialing, sequencing, and AI-generated notes.
The good news is there are alternatives.
Salesforce offers scalability, while Pipedrive and Close simplify outbound efforts, and Salesmate CRM provides great value at a decent price.
In this guide, I'll break down the best alternatives to HubSpot, including their reporting and analytics dashboards grouped by needs: sales, marketing, SMBs, and enterprises.
What people really want when they search for "HubSpot alternatives"
When someone types “alternatives to HubSpot CRM or HubSpot marketing alternatives,” it’s rarely out of curiosity. It usually comes from a pain point that’s getting too big to ignore.
Here are the most common discussions you’ll find on Reddit rooms about HubSpot alternatives:
Many users start looking for alternatives because HubSpot no longer aligns with their evolving business needs, such as specific workflows, integrations, or support requirements.
In short, people don’t usually walk away from HubSpot because it’s bad software; they leave because the cost, reliability, or fit no longer makes sense for the way their business actually runs.
7 Top HubSpot alternatives overview (2026)
Before we dive into the tools, it's worth noting that each HubSpot alternative suits a different stage, budget, and business process.
1. Salesmate (Best HubSpot CRM alternative)
Salesmate is designed as a complete revenue operating system for modern teams, helping sales teams manage leads and organize customer data efficiently.
Where HubSpot often pushes users into costly upgrades, Salesmate delivers core essentials, such as calling, texting, email marketing campaigns, and features to automate repetitive tasks through AI-powered automation. Salesmate includes sales automation tools and a sales assistant to streamline the sales process.
That means fewer add-ons to manage, faster adoption, and a smoother workflow for both sales and marketing. Its advanced automation features allow branching workflows and predictive recommendations.
With Skara, an AI agent, teams can automate lead nurturing, cart recovery, meeting notes, and 24/7 support, helping businesses grow faster without adding headcount.
Many growing businesses choose it because it feels lighter than HubSpot, yet still powerful enough to run sales pipelines, launch marketing campaigns, and utilize the sales hub for visualizing and managing the sales process, as well as deliver excellent customer support from a single platform.
So, if you pick Salesmate, you get a CRM built for sales, marketing, and basic support, all in one place, with advanced reporting features for sales and marketing performance.
Users on G2 and Capterra often praise its ease of setup, clean user experience, and value for money, making Salesmate one of the top-rated alternatives to HubSpot CRM, especially with its robust customer support tools.
Key features
Pricing plans:
(All plans include a 15-day free trial, no credit card required.)
2. Salesforce CRM software
Salesforce is often considered the industry standard in CRM, and for good reason.
It’s trusted by over 150,000 companies worldwide and offers unmatched flexibility for marketing, sales, and customer service.
Unlike HubSpot, which is more plug-and-play, Salesforce enables businesses to customize workflows, integrate with numerous apps, and scale without limitations.
Its extensive apps and integrations ecosystem allows users to connect with a wide range of third-party services, such as Zapier, enhancing workflow automation and expanding functionality.
That power, however, comes with complexity and higher costs, making it better suited for organizations with dedicated sales ops or IT support.
Salesforce is particularly well-suited for enterprises that require advanced customization of complex sales processes.
Key features:
Pricing plans:
(Free trial available; discounts may apply for SMBs or regional promotions.)
3. Microsoft Dynamics 365
Microsoft Dynamics 365 blends CRM and ERP into a single platform, making it a strong option for businesses seeking more than just sales and marketing automation.
Unlike HubSpot, which is primarily focused on customer engagement, Dynamics 365 connects sales, service, finance, and supply chain processes under a single system, and also offers content management features for organizing digital assets and marketing materials.
Dynamics delivers customizable pipelines, AI insights, and automated workflows across departments. Its AI agents and CoCoPilot bring predictive insights and task automation into everyday workflows.
While its depth makes it ideal for enterprises or organizations with complex needs, smaller teams may find it overwhelming compared to lighter CRMs.
Still, for businesses that want scale and operational alignment, Dynamics 365 delivers.
Key features:
Pricing plans:
(30-day free trial available; pricing varies by module and region.)
4. Freshsales (Freshworks CRM)
Freshsales is a solid HubSpot alternative for teams wanting simple contact management and an AI-powered CRM without the enterprise-level complexity.
Built by Freshworks, it’s designed for ease of use, giving sales reps a clean interface, quick setup, and Freddy AI to score leads, recommend next steps, and even draft emails.
Freshsales also functions as a customer support platform, offering features like shared inboxes and knowledge bases to help teams deliver efficient support and collaborate effectively.
Unlike HubSpot’s heavier bundles, Freshsales keeps pricing straightforward and starts as low as $9, making it attractive for startups and SMBs.
With sales and marketing in one suite, it helps growing businesses manage pipelines, campaigns, and customer engagement from a single system.
Key features:
Pricing plans:
(21-day free trial, no credit card required.)
5. ActiveCampaign (Best HubSpot alternative for email marketing)
ActiveCampaign has long been a favorite for email and marketing automation, and its new autonomous marketing features push it even further ahead.
As a powerful marketing automation tool, ActiveCampaign enables businesses to launch sophisticated cross-channel campaigns in minutes.
It offers a wide range of customizable email templates, making campaign creation efficient and ensuring a professional appearance. Users can also create and optimize landing pages to improve lead generation and conversion rates.
Additionally, ActiveCampaign integrates with numerous marketing apps, streamlining workflows and enhancing overall campaign performance.
Its “Active Intelligence” uses AI agents to recommend next steps, optimize content, and even execute tasks, removing the guesswork from campaign planning.
Key features:
Pricing plans:
(14-day free trial, no credit card required.)
6. GetResponse
GetResponse is best known as an affordable marketing automation platform, often chosen as a HubSpot marketing alternative for SMBs, eCommerce, and especially online businesses looking to scale and streamline their operations.
Unlike HubSpot, which often raises costs as your list grows, GetResponse maintains predictable pricing, even as you send more emails or build larger campaigns.
New users can also take advantage of a free plan, which provides basic features to help small businesses get started before upgrading to paid options.
It’s built for eCommerce stores, SMBs, entrepreneurs, and online businesses who need unlimited email sends, automation workflows, and landing pages without paying extra for each module.
With added tools like SMS, push notifications, funnels, and even webinars, it’s more than an email service; it’s a growth platform.
GetResponse also tracks customer behavior, allowing you to personalize marketing campaigns and improve engagement based on how customers interact with your content.
For teams frustrated with HubSpot’s pricing creep, GetResponse feels like a simpler and more cost-stable choice for managing customer conversations.
Key features:
Pricing plans:
(Free trial available, no credit card required.)
7. Ontraport
Ontraport is designed to provide growing businesses with enterprise-level CRM capabilities without the enterprise-level pricing or complexity.
Unlike HubSpot, which often requires stacking add-ons, Ontraport consolidates marketing automation, CRM, pipelines, payments, project management tools, and even CMS into one platform.
Its strength lies in flexibility; teams can build custom processes, create membership sites, manage events, or run referral programs all within the same system.
Ontraport enables segmentation and engagement of targeted customers with personalized campaigns, helping businesses reach specific audience groups more effectively.
With AI assistants integrated across sales, marketing, and support, it reduces busywork while scaling customer experiences.
Ontraport also includes tools to track and improve customer satisfaction through automated feedback and support workflows, ensuring a better overall customer experience.
Advanced reporting tools are available for analyzing campaign and business performance, giving users valuable insights into their operations.
For SMBs or franchises that want all-in-one functionality without the HubSpot price tag, Ontraport offers a compelling alternative.
Key features:
Pricing plans:
(14-day free trial, no credit card required. Pricing scales only as you grow.)
Automate work, accelerate growth!
Let Salesmate handle follow-ups, campaigns, and tasks, so your team spends more time closing deals.
Quick comparison of the most talked-about HubSpot alternatives in 2026
Before diving into detailed reviews, here’s a quick side-by-side look at the leading HubSpot competitors, highlighting their strengths as a HubSpot competitor.
This table compares top alternatives, focusing on features, pricing, and suitability for different business needs.
Several of these platforms offer free plans, which can be especially valuable for smaller businesses and startups looking to minimize costs.
Pricing is approximate from public sources. Actual costs vary by billing cycle, region, or add-ons. Free plans are available for Freshsales and GetResponse, making them attractive options for smaller businesses.
Hidden costs of HubSpot vs alternatives
When you're exploring alternatives to HubSpot CRM, remember the sticker price is only part of the story.
Both HubSpot and its competitors often carry costs that don't show up until you're months into using the platform.
Here's what to watch out for:
Hidden costs of HubSpot
Hidden costs of HubSpot alternatives
Even though many HubSpot alternatives position themselves as simpler or cheaper, they can come with their own hidden expenses:
How to choose the right alternative based on your business stage & priorities?
The “best HubSpot alternative” really depends on where your business is today and what you care about most.
A few patterns tend to come up:
So, match the CRM to your stage and priorities. If you’re small and scrappy, keep it simple. If you’re scaling rapidly, consider an all-in-one solution. If you’re an enterprise, you’ll need something customizable, even if it costs more.
Enterprise power, without the bloat!
Salesmate delivers enterprise-grade features, AI, omnichannel capabilities, and automation at predictable pricing and with faster setup.
How to migrate from HubSpot CRM alternatives without losing data?
Switching CRMs can feel daunting, but it doesn't have to mean losing your history. The trick is to approach migration step by step.
1. Clean before you export
Avoid carrying over duplicates, outdated contacts, or incomplete records to ensure accuracy. This is your opportunity to clean up your database so the new CRM can start from a clean slate.
2. Map your fields carefully
HubSpot and your new CRM may label things differently. Create a simple mapping list so fields like Contact Owner or Deal Stage align correctly when you import.
3. Export everything that matters
It's not just contacts, you'll likely want deals, companies, notes, activities, and custom properties. Many CRMs also allow you to import email history.
4. Test with a small sample
Run a trial import with a few dozen records. This helps you catch mismatches in fields or ownership before moving the full database.
5. Reconnect your tools
After the data is in, don't forget to integrate with services like Gmail, Slack, or marketing automation tools. Rebuilding these connections early keeps teams productive.
6. Train your team and go live
Even if the new CRM is user-friendly, give your sales, marketing, and support staff a walkthrough. Familiarity reduces frustration during the first weeks.
Pro tip: Factor in hidden costs, such as onboarding, consultant time, or downtime during the cutover. Planning for them upfront avoids nasty surprises.
Future-proofing your CRM choice (AI & automation in 2026)
Choosing a CRM isn't only about what works today; it's about whether the platform can keep up with your business in the years ahead. That's where AI and automation step in.
The bigger AI trend in tech is showing clearly: CRMs are evolving into copilots.
They're not just tracking contacts and deals; they're guiding decisions, identifying risks in your pipeline before they emerge, and helping teams stay compliant as data regulations become more stringent.
Low-code and no-code customization is also becoming standard, giving business teams flexibility without always leaning on developers.
Checklist: What to look for in a future-proof CRM
Future-proofing your CRM choice means selecting a vendor that is already investing in these areas. That way, you're not just buying software, you're buying time, avoiding future migrations, and setting yourself up for smoother growth as automation becomes the default.
Conclusion
Across all stages, sales and marketing teams need predictable costs and future-readiness. Ultimately, the best alternatives to HubSpot depend on your priorities.
Startups often seek simple and affordable CRM tools.
Growing SMBs require a unified approach to sales and marketing, whereas enterprises focus on advanced customization and integrations.
However, across all stages, two key factors matter most: future-readiness and predictable costs.
Don't just compare subscription prices; factor in hidden costs, onboarding, and whether the CRM can grow with your team.
Select a platform that aligns with your current stage and is already investing in AI and automation for the future.
If you're looking for an all-in-one option, Salesmate is definitely worth considering. Start with a 15-day free trial today.
Frequently asked questions
1. Is Salesmate a good alternative to HubSpot in 2026?
Yes. Salesmate combines sales, marketing, and customer engagement in one platform at a more predictable cost than HubSpot, all supported by an intuitive interface. With built-in calling, texting, email campaigns, live chat, and AI-powered automation, it's designed for growing teams that want enterprise-grade features without the premium pricing of HubSpot.
2. Salesmate vs HubSpot: Which is better for small businesses?
For mid-sized to scaling businesses, Salesmate is often the better fit. It's easier to set up, more affordable, and includes communication tools (calls, texts, email) by default. HubSpot is powerful, but costs climb quickly as contacts and add-ons scale.
3. What is the best open-source alternative to HubSpot CRM in 2026?
If you want full control, SuiteCRM remains the most popular open-source CRM. OroCRM is well-suited for eCommerce, while ERPNext is a strong option for those requiring a comprehensive CRM solution that integrates accounting, HR, and inventory features. Keep in mind, open-source CRMs usually require developer support for hosting and customization.
4. Which HubSpot alternatives offer free CRM plans?
Several CRMs offer free tiers, including Zoho CRM (up to three users), EngageBay (250 contacts), and Freshsales (a starter plan is available at no cost). These are good choices for startups wanting to experiment without major investment. Salesmate offers a free trial, allowing you to test advanced features before committing.
5. What are the best HubSpot alternatives for enterprises?
Salesforce, Salesmate, and Microsoft Dynamics 365 are the top options. All three offer deep customization, strong compliance features, and AI capabilities. Salesforce and Dynamics cater to enterprises with IT teams and complex needs, while Salesmate strikes a balance between enterprise-grade features, faster setup, and predictable pricing.
6. Which HubSpot alternative is best for sales teams?
Salesmate excels in this area, combining sales automation with built-in calling, texting, and email, so reps can sell without needing to switch tools. Also, for pipeline-focused teams, Pipedrive and Freshsales are strong choices.
7. Can you switch from HubSpot without losing historical data?
Yes, but it requires planning. Export contacts, deals, notes, and activities, then carefully map the fields to your new CRM. Run a test import first to catch errors. Most modern CRMs, including Salesmate, also offer migration support or services to simplify the process.
8. How much cheaper are alternatives to HubSpot in 2026?
It depends on scale. Many HubSpot alternatives start between $14–$29 per user/month, while HubSpot's contact-based pricing can push costs into the thousands as databases grow. For scaling teams, the savings can be significant over one to two years.
Sonali Negi
Content WriterSonali is a writer born out of her utmost passion for writing. She is working with a passionate team of content creators at Salesmate. She enjoys learning about new ideas in marketing and sales. She is an optimistic girl and endeavors to bring the best out of every situation. In her free time, she loves to introspect and observe people.